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SXB destination photo
MAD destination photo

SXBMAD

Our Recommendation
8.5

Right Side of the Plane

The right side provides an exceptional view of the Auvergne's dormant volcanic chain (Chaîne des Puys) and the rugged Sierra de Guadarrama during the descent into Madrid.

Right Side Highlights
8.5
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Burgundy Vineyards

The geometric patterns of world-famous wine regions passing beneath the wing in Eastern France.

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Chaîne des Puys

A UNESCO-listed string of dormant volcanoes in the Massif Central, including the iconic Puy de Dôme.

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Western Pyrenees

The dramatic transition where the high mountains begin to slope down toward the Atlantic's Bay of Biscay.

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Ebro River Valley

The vast, arid plains of Aragon and the winding Ebro river create a high-contrast landscape.

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Sierra de Guadarrama

Rugged granite mountains northwest of Madrid that provide a scenic backdrop during the final approach.

The right side is superior for geological interest, specifically for the Auvergne volcanoes roughly 35 minutes into the flight. For late afternoon flights, this side offers a spectacular sunset over the Spanish plateau. Ask for a seat forward of the wing to avoid engine heat distortion over the volcanic landscapes.

Left Side Highlights
7.9
⛰️

Vosges Mountains

Visible immediately after takeoff from Strasbourg, offering lush green peaks and valleys.

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Distant Alps

On clear days, look southeast to see the snow-capped peaks of the Swiss and French Alps on the horizon.

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Lyon Cityscape

The confluence of the Rhône and Saône rivers is often visible mid-flight depending on the specific air corridor.

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Central Pyrenees

A stunning crossing of the high border peaks between France and Spain, featuring jagged limestone ridges.

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Madrid Metropolitan Area

Views of the sprawling Spanish capital and its iconic skyscrapers like the Cuatro Torres as you approach the airport.

Sit on the left for the best chance to spot the distant Alps early in the flight. In the morning, the sun will be on this side, which can cause glare, but it provides excellent lighting for the Pyrenees peaks later in the journey.

Top Activities in Madrid
Route Information

Distance: 1,259 km (782 miles)

Approximate Flight Time: 1 hr 41 min

Departure: SXB (48.53829956054688, 7.628230094909668)

Arrival: MAD (40.471926, -3.56264)

Route Type: International

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